An outpouring of emotions, glowing tributes and heartfelt prayers marked the final farewell for former Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mother Celestial Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku, as top government officials, political leaders, religious figures and family members gathered to celebrate her life and legacy.
Among the dignitaries present at the funeral were Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Lagos State Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde; Senators Seye Ogunlewe and Tokunbo Abiru; Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, alongside several other prominent personalities.
The late Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku, wife of Lagos political leader and Governance Advisory Council (GAC) member, Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, popularly known as Baba Eto, was laid to rest on Friday, July 3, 2026. She passed away on June 25, 2026, at the age of 59.
Speaking during the burial ceremony, the representative of the Celestial Church of Christ, Tosho Oshoffa, expressed appreciation to the numerous dignitaries, friends and associates who attended the event to support the bereaved family and celebrate the remarkable life of the late Mother Celestial.
He commended the overwhelming show of love and solidarity, describing it as a reflection of the impact Olasinmi made during her lifetime through her service to humanity, unwavering faith and commitment to helping others.
Tributes from family members, friends and associates painted the late former commissioner as a compassionate, humble and selfless leader whose contributions to public service and humanitarian causes left lasting impressions on many lives.
As Commissioner for Women Affairs in Ondo State, she was widely recognised for championing women empowerment, family development and social welfare initiatives that positively impacted communities across the state.
Her husband, Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, one of the most influential figures in Lagos politics and leader of the APC Mandate Group, was described by sympathisers as having lost not only a devoted wife but also a trusted confidante, adviser and steadfast pillar of support.
For decades, Baba Eto has remained a key political ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and an influential voice within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Those who knew the couple noted that while he played prominent political roles, Olasinmi quietly complemented his journey through her dedication to family, public service and humanitarian work.
Born on October 9, 1966, Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku built a reputation as a woman of integrity, generosity and deep compassion, earning admiration across political, religious and community circles.
Her final rites began with a wake-keep and night of tributes held on Thursday, July 2, at Hyde Park Corner, Alausa, Ikeja, where loved ones gathered to celebrate her remarkable life.
The funeral activities continued with a lying-in-state at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa, followed by a funeral service and private interment.
Though she has taken her final bow, family members and admirers said her enduring legacy of love, service, compassion and generosity will continue to inspire generations.
For many who came to honour her memory, Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku lived a life of purpose, served with distinction and left footprints that time will not erase.
